TFC  /  Compounding  /  Dermatology
Dermatology compounding

Skin treatments your dermatologist actually wrote.

Custom-strength tretinoin, hydroquinone, niacinamide, and combination creams — formulated to your dermatologist's specification. Modified Kligman, triple-acne combos, hair loss formulations, and bespoke topicals for melasma, acne, hyperpigmentation, and hair restoration.

Custom %
Tretinoin · HQ · niacinamide
Combo
Kligman & acne stacks
PCAB
Compounding accredited
A compounded dermatology cream in a labeled tube
Derm
Rx
Why compounded derm

Three reasons dermatologists send their patients here.

Strengths beyond commercial

Tretinoin 0.1%, hydroquinone 6–8%, niacinamide 10%. Commercial products top out — compounding starts where they stop.

Combination in one tube

One cream with three actives instead of three separate prescriptions to layer. Adherence goes up; cost often goes down.

Bases for sensitive skin

Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, preservative-minimized bases for rosacea, eczema, and post-procedure skin.

Common dermatology formulas

Most-prescribed derm compounds we fill.

Compounded to your dermatologist's exact specification. Below are the formulas we make most often.

Modified Kligman

Topical
Tretinoin 0.05% + Hydroquinone 4% + Hydrocortisone 1%
Use: Melasma, PIH. Gold-standard triple therapy. Non-comedogenic base.

Triple acne combo

Topical
Tretinoin 0.025% + Clindamycin 1% + Niacinamide 4%
Use: Inflammatory acne. Retinoid + antibiotic + barrier support in one tube.

Tretinoin custom

Topical
Tretinoin 0.005% – 0.1% in moisturizing base
Use: Acne, photoaging. Custom strength for tolerance titration.

Hair loss "Liquid Magic"

Topical
Minoxidil 5–7% + Finasteride 0.1% + (optional) latanoprost 0.005%
Use: Androgenetic alopecia. Topical alternative to oral finasteride.

Kojic + Niacinamide brightening

Topical
Kojic acid 4% + Niacinamide 4% + Azelaic acid 10%
Use: Hyperpigmentation alternative when hydroquinone isn't tolerated.

Rosacea triple

Topical
Metronidazole 0.75% + Azelaic acid 15% + Ivermectin 1%
Use: Papulopustular rosacea. Three first-line agents in one application.

Topical spironolactone

Topical
Spironolactone 5% in alcohol-water-glycerol vehicle
Use: Adult female acne. Localized anti-androgen without systemic effect.

Topical tranexamic acid

Topical
Tranexamic acid 5–10% · serum or cream
Use: Melasma, PIH. Pigment-modulator with growing evidence base.

Ketoconazole + clobetasol shampoo

Topical · Scalp
Ketoconazole 2% + Clobetasol 0.05% shampoo
Use: Severe seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis.

Hyperhidrosis solution

Topical
Glycopyrrolate 2% topical · roll-on or pad delivery
Use: Hyperhidrosis of underarms, hands, feet, scalp.
Process

From dermatologist to your bathroom shelf, in four steps.

01

Dermatologist sends Rx

eRx, fax, or phone. Turnaround depends on formulation — we'll confirm when the Rx arrives.

02

Base selected

Cream, gel, lotion, or serum — chosen for skin type and concern.

03

Compounded

Light-sensitive actives (tretinoin) protected in amber containers.

04

Pickup or delivery

Pickup in store or ask about delivery. Discreet packaging available on request.

DERMATOLOGY COMPOUNDING
Dermatology creams, gels, and solutions prepared to prescriber specification in our PCAB-accredited lab. Call (323) 348-4205 to transfer a prescription or discuss vehicle and strength options.
Common questions

Dermatology compounds, frequently asked.

Why use a compounded cream instead of an OTC product?

OTC products are capped at low strengths (hydroquinone 2%, niacinamide 4%, retinol equivalents). Prescription compounds use higher concentrations and prescription-only actives like tretinoin, hydroquinone above 4%, and pharmaceutical-grade retinoids. They're prescribed when stronger therapy is medically warranted.

Are compounded dermatology products covered by insurance?

Inconsistently. Many derm compounds are out-of-pocket. We bill insurance first and quote a cash price if they decline.

How long does my compound last after I open it?

BUDs typically range from 60 to 180 days for non-sterile creams, depending on base and active. Tretinoin and hydroquinone are light- and air-sensitive; we package in amber airless pumps when possible to extend shelf life.

Can you make hair-loss compounds for women?

Yes — minoxidil at 2–5%, often combined with spironolactone, finasteride (with appropriate prescriber discussion), or latanoprost. Custom formulas are common in dermatology referrals for AGA in women.

My dermatologist gave me a paper script. Can I drop it off?

Yes — walk in any time during open hours, or drop in the slot during off-hours. We can also accept a photo of the script via secure form, then verify with the prescriber.

Ready to fill a dermatology compound?

Transfer your prescription to TFC by phone or form, or have your dermatologist send the script directly.